Though she was planning to hire a joint housekeeper and dresser to serve her and Prince William in their apartment at Kensington Palace in London, Kate, 29, doesn't feel she needs one, her chief aide says, and they'll be living primarily in Anglesey, Wales.

Admitting that he mistakenly announced the news, the couple's private secretary Jamie Lowther-Pinkerton told reporters the household will be reassessing what's needed toward the end of the year.

After their engagement and the wedding in April, William and Kate's lives were in a "time of flux," he said. "Maybe it was precipitous on my part. I am beginning to find out the infrastructures we need to support a young couple," said the distinguished former military man. "It's the first time I've worked for a lady."

Meanwhile, Kate will be taking hairdresser James Pryce with her on a visit to California as part of a modest entourage. Also supporting the couple on their upcoming North American tour: a secretary, who will primarily support Kate, two press secretaries, Lowther-Pinkerton and an assistant private secretary, who's in charge of the tour management.

The royal couple will also use staff at the residences where they'll be staying.

Sir David Manning, a former diplomat, who acts as an adviser to the princes and Kate, will also go on their trip.